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Pianist Jim Clayton must have one hip daughter; or perhaps it's the other way around. Regardless, both parties clearly inspire one another through music. On the simply-and-directly titled Songs My Daughter Knows, Clayton explores the musical ins-and-outs of the first three years spent with his cherished child--Eileen Agnes Lenny" Clayton. The album opens on the fairly obscure, Sesame Street-connected Grouch Anthem." After hearing this performance, it's hard to understand why the song isn't a favorite among the ...

Jim Clayton's ensemble has the same instrumental make-up as several editions of The Yellowjackets, and the first track, Full Yellow Jacket," incorporates elements of Yellowjackets arranging as well. But the Greenhouse incorporates a wide range of styles in its arrangements and the quartet allows room for each of its members to speak out. Pat Wheeler holds the lead voice, and with her fluid saxophone tone is able to achieve distinct moods for the varied compositions. Leader and pianist Clayton speaks ...